One of the satisfied participants in the mid-June 10th Global Jamaica Diaspora Conference (GJDC) held in Montego Bay, St James, was history-making Jamaican American attorney Alison Smith who was making her second trip to the bi-yearly event.

Back in her Miramar, Miami home in Florida, Smith gave the four-day gathering of Jamaicans living overseas the thumbs up, saying she was happy to be able to attend the first in-person meeting since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The event drew the attention of almost 1,200 registrants, all eager to network, synergize and learn how to collectively support and advance Jamaica’s economy and infrastructure,” said Smith.

She noted that conference topics included issues Diasporans and locals alike are keenly and closely watching and concerned about, including crime, health care and education. Speakers shared information and resources about investing in Jamaica through real estate, tourism, agriculture, or other more creative routes.

Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith (right) with Jamaican American attorney Alison Smith outside the Diaspora conference

Senators Janice Allen (left) and Damion Crawford hang out with attorney Alison Smith.

Describing herself as “a proud Diasporan”, Smith told the Jamaica Observer: “This is my second Diaspora conference. I spoke at the first one, and was extremely impressed then with the event’s ability to draw people from over the world, who share the same fierce love and pride in their nation.

“I was certainly not going to miss it, given that it hasn’t been held in person for years. I’ve met people from all over North America, Canada and the UK and there are also people from the United Arab Emirates and Africa here.”

In 2022, Smith became the first woman of colour to take the helm as president of the century-old Broward County Bar Association, one of the largest voluntary bar associations in the state of Florida.

One of the things that stood out for her in Montego Bay was the plan by the Diaspora Council to strengthen the link between members of the Diaspora, especially the youth, in countries outside of the norm, such as Mexico and places like the Middle East.

Junior Foreign Minister Alando Terrelonge (right) and Senator Janice Allen share the moment with Jamaica’s Consul General to Miami Oliver Mair.

Consul General to Jamaica in Miami Oliver Mair, who worked overtime to ensure a successful conference, said: “The conference was full of substance, energy, vibe and possibilities. Sessions were engaging and informative.

“The networking was fantastic – our fellow Jamaicans came from around the world – meeting, connecting and exploring new ways of supporting our homeland. Of course, I am very happy with the large number of members of the Southern USA Diaspora who are here!”